Which 1911 should I get

[glock34]

I am wanting to get a 1911 for a shooting gun and not a carry. Wanting to get someting that I can build on if choose to fine tune but also something that can shoot as is. Was looking RRA and Springfield but not set on anything yet. What would you get? Why? anything I should make sure whatever I get has?

And then once you help me out with which one where should i go look for it. Missed a RRA at the show from PSS when i went back to a different table to look at something else.

 

[slacker]

I am really happy with my Rock Island Armory 1911a1. It comes with many of the common upgrades and for the price (<$450) it seems hard to beat.

 

[melensdad]

Starter gun in 1911 at a budget price, RIA or Taurus.

Springfield Armory is higher priced but tough to beat for value.

On the other hand, I'd take a serious look at the ParaUSA P14 or its lower priced brother the BigHawg. Its a double stack 45, all the traditional 1911 controls, with almost twice the capacity and is the basis for many competition guns so if you want to build it up it would be a great option. Plus, it will likely go up in value if there is another AWB because of the ability to hold more than 10 rounds.

 

[Jeff]

I would give a look at the STI Spartan.

 

[Lars]

one that A) runs, and B) you never have to make an excuse for.

 

[NateIU10]

I love my Taurus 1911

 

[Lock n Load]

I am partial to my Kimbers, all of mine are series I or series II w/ internal extractors. I know that Kimber has had their issues...... but I have had good results w/ them.

No matter what brand, for just range duty I would suggest staying with the 5" and also using Wilson Combat magazines.... this also applies well to a carry piece also!!!

 

[Wabatuckian]

I would give a look at the STI Spartan.

R.I.A./Armscor.

Armscor makes the slide, barrel and frame for the Spartan. The Rock Islands and Spartans share more large parts than not.

 

[Dogman]

Para Ordnance makes some very nice guns at a reasonable price.

 

[BigCat]

I would give a look at the STI Spartan.

If you can find one, this is a great way to go. Although it shares some parts with other entry level 1911s, STI does the fitting and adds some of there parts...a great value.

I am also a fan of Colts for a good first 1911 if you think you might add to them later on. I noticed you said RRA in the original post. I don't know if you meant RIA (Rock Island) or if you meant RRA (Rock River). Rock Island is a good entry level 1911. Rock River has suspended making 1911s and when they did, they were in the semi-custom level, on the spend side (around 2,000) and a heck of a nice gun.

The recommendation really depends on your budget as there are some good options at each price point.

 

[JByer323]

I have a Springfield Loaded. Not an expert in them by far, but I'm completely happy. Until I can afford a Wilson, at least.

 

[s346k]

i have a s&w 1911 sc commander. i am unaware of its aftermarket, but i am in love with the weapon itself. nice gun, but the sc/pd smiths are a little pricey, imo.

 

[Bshaw]

New 1911

If it dont say Colt its just a copy
seriously tho there are a lot of fine 1911s out there today
I own Colts ,Springfeilds, Kimber and I have been happy with them all but there is something special about a Colt

 

[calcot7]

Also worth a look is the Auto Ordnance/Thompson 1911A1. Good solid WWII reproduction and reasonably priced. Also, Khar is now partnered with Auto Ord.

 

[cox7215]

Well I have a Kimber, but I really like the Springfield models, I think I am going to order on real soon, they are very nice looking guns and very well priced!!!!! .......R

 

[colt45er]

If it dont say Colt its just a copy
seriously tho there are a lot of fine 1911s out there today
I own Colts ,Springfeilds, Kimber and I have been happy with them all but there is something special about a Colt

There is something special about the pony!!

 

[GlockRock]

I have 2 Colt compact 1991A1's. They are both excellent guns.

 

[haldir]

I have aSpringfield and have been happy with it. I have to admit though that I am getting the urge for a Colt. It would go well with the Colt AR.

 

[mtk469]

I have had a Colt, Springfeilds, Kimbers, and a Rock Island. I currently own a Springfeild Loaded Micro Compact and a Kimber fullsize. All have there goods and bads I suppose. If I was to choose again for my first 1911 on a budget I would look for a used Springfeild Milspec, used base line Kimber or a new Taurus.
Matt

 

[John Galt]

Save your money and get a Wilson, you will never regret it!